The United Nations has called upon Kaduna state lawmakers to maximise women’s potential in legislations, promoting gender equality and sustainable peace and security.
Mrs Beatrice Eyong, UN Women Representative for Nigeria, emphasised this during a two-day retreat in Abuja, organised by Cleen Foundation in partnership with Partnership for West Africa Nigeria (PWAN).
Eyong, represented by Mr Peter Mancha, UN Programme Manager on Women, Peace and Security, stressed that lawmakers are strategically positioned to promote women’s agendas.
She cited Nigerian women like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, and Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the UN, as examples of optimised potential on the global stage.
Eyong highlighted Kaduna state’s history of crises, disproportionately affecting women and children, and advocated for their input in peace and security legislations.
She emphasised the need to eliminate negative cultural practices limiting women and strengthen positive cultural practices enhancing women’s participation.
The UN representative noted that no nation or sector can achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) without mainstreaming gender, recognising women as actors and contributors to peace and security.
Kaduna State Assembly Deputy Speaker, Mr Henry Danjuma, expressed lawmakers’ willingness to harness women’s potentials and provide platforms for their input.
Mrs Joan Jatau, Ex-Attorney General of Kaduna state, lauded the event organisers for creating a forum for legislators to learn gender-responsive ways of peace and security.
Mrs Kemi Okenyodo, Executive Director of Partnership West Africa Nigeria (PWAN), reiterated the organisation’s commitment to support projects boosting women’s participation in peace building and sustained security.
Mr Gad Peter, Executive Director of Cleen Foundation, stressed the need for concerted efforts and collaboration with civil society organisations, community leaders, and international partners.
Peter, represented by Mr Salaudeen Hashim, the groups programme manager said there was need for concerted efforts towards localising, implementing and vigilantly overseeing measure that ensured women’s full participation.(NAN)
